As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 27, 2009

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

 

Commission file number: 001-11015

 

VIAD CORP

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

(602) 207-4000

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined by Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes þ  No o

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.  Yes o  No þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes þ  No o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  o  

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes o  No þ

 

The aggregate market value of the Common Stock (based on its closing price per share on such date) held by non-affiliates on the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter (June 30, 2008) was approximately $516 million.

 

Registrant had 20,269,832 shares of Common Stock ($1.50 par value) outstanding as of January 30, 2009.

 

Documents Incorporated by Reference

 

A portion of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Viad Corp to be held May 19, 2009 is incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report.

 

 

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INDEX

 

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Viad Corp (“Viad” or the “Company”) is comprised of several operating companies which constitute a diversified services business. Viad’s companies provide high-quality, place-based marketing services in North America, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates, as well as travel and recreation services in the United States and Canada. The Company’s businesses occupy leading positions in many of the markets in which they compete. They seek to provide quality, convenient and cost-effective services with a discernible difference to the ultimate users, thereby being considered a value-added provider by Viad’s customers.

 

Viad’s services are classified into three reportable business segments: (1) GES, comprised of GES Exposition Services, Inc. and its affiliated companies, including Melville Exhibition and Event Services Limited and Corporate Technical Services Limited (collectively “Melville”) and GES Exposition Services (Canada) Limited (2) Experiential Marketing Services comprised of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur, a division of Viad, and its affiliated companies, including SDD Exhibitions Limited and Voblo Verwaltungs GmbH (“Exhibitgroup/Giltspur”) and The Becker Group, Ltd. (“Becker Group”) and (3) Travel and Recreation Services provided by the Brewster Inc. and Glacier Park, Inc. business units. The reportable business segments have been defined in a manner consistent with Viad’s organizational structure, internal reporting, allocation of resources and operating decision-making. A description of each of Viad’s reportable business segments and recent developments relating to each is provided below.

 

Viad has no customer that comprises more than five percent of its revenues, and no reporting segment has a customer comprising more than ten percent of that segment’s revenues.

 

Recent Business Developments

 

On January 4, 2008, Viad completed the acquisition of Becker Group, an experiential marketing company specializing in creating immersive, entertaining attractions and brand-based experiences for clients and venues, including shopping malls, movie studios, museums, leading consumer brands and casinos. Since Becker Group’s acquisition, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur and Becker Group have worked closely together to capitalize on their collective creative talents and capabilities, including collaboration in creating and executing “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Exhibition.” In November 2008, Viad began the formal integration of Becker Group into Exhibitgroup/Giltspur in order to provide clients with a broader, integrated service offering and global support.

 

Viad Business Units

 

Viad is comprised of three operating groups which are leading competitors in the markets in which they compete. They include businesses that provide high-quality, place-based marketing services, as well as travel and recreation services.

 

GES

 

GES provides services to the exhibition, event and corporate meeting industry, which primarily consists of exhibitions, trade shows, conventions, and corporate and special events that facilitate face-to-face marketing. GES is one of the leading service providers in North America and the United Kingdom. GES has a network of offices in the most active and popular destinations in North America and the United Kingdom, as well as in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. With a focus on assisting event organizers in all aspects of the preparation, installation and dismantling of an exhibition, convention or special event, GES services some of the most visible and influential events in the exhibition, event and corporate meeting industry. In 2008, GES and its affiliated companies, under the GES Worldwide Network brand, provided services to over 250,000 exhibitor customers in North America and the United Kingdom and for an estimated 2,000 exhibitions and hundreds of events and projects across North America, the United Kingdom and United Arab Emirates.

 

GES has full service operations in 16 U.S. cities, eight Canadian cities, four United Kingdom cities and one city in the United Arab Emirates. The acquisition of Melville in February 2007 expanded GES’ operations to the major exhibition facilities within the United Kingdom. Melville also provides GES a platform for the expansion of GES’ business into other international markets. In 2007, GES expanded its operations into Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, through its Melville Middle East affiliate, serving as the exclusive provider of venue services at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre, as well as providing exhibitions and exhibitors with the full array of services offered by the GES Worldwide Network. In January 2009, through its Melville affiliate, GES extended its freight forwarding and logistics services business into continental Europe by launching operations in Germany.

 

GES provides exhibition and event services such as designing, planning, managing, producing, installing and dismantling every aspect of an exhibition and event. GES’ principal customers are show organizers, corporate event organizers and exhibitors. Central to GES’ customer base are show organizers, which are comprised of for-profit show owners, not-for-profit trade associations, publishing firms, show management companies and corporations that plan and manage their own proprietary

events. Under its agreements with show organizers, GES provides services to the show organizer and is designated as the exclusive provider of certain services to exhibitors participating in the exhibition or event. Services provided to show organizers include: general management; planning and consultation; concept design; exhibition layout and design; graphics and design; show traffic analysis; carpeting and flooring; decorating products and accessories; custom graphics; overhead rigging; cleaning; and electrical, lighting and plumbing distribution. Exclusive services provided to exhibitors typically include material handling services, overhead rigging, electrical distribution and cleaning. The services that GES provides to show organizers generally help the organizer provide the infrastructure necessary to service the attendees and exhibitors of the event and communicate the brand of the show, while the exclusive exhibitor services, which may vary from venue to venue, provide the exhibitors a single point of contact to facilitate a timely, safe and efficient move-in and move-out of the show. In addition to the exclusive services, GES seeks to sell discretionary services to the exhibitors that participate in the exhibition or event. These discretionary services include: program management and on-site coordination for exhibitors; rental furniture and furnishings, booth carpeting and signage; logistics and shipping services; exhibit design and construction; return on investment analysis; attendee and exhibit booth traffic analysis; installation and dismantling services; storage and refurbishing of exhibits.

 

As the official services contractor, GES prepares and sends an Exhibitor Manual to each exhibitor in advance of the show, either by mail, electronic distribution utilizing GES’ IntelliKit^sm product, or by GES’ internet-based ordering system, GES Online. The Exhibitor Manual contains detailed descriptions of the exclusive and discretionary services offered by GES and order forms for those services. When GES is not the official services contractor, GES competes with the official services contractor and other specialized contractors to provide exhibitors the discretionary services described above.

 

Experiential Marketing Services

 

Experiential Marketing Services, comprised of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur and Becker Group (acquired on January 4, 2008), has 28 client care centers in the U.S., United Kingdom, Germany and Canada, and further services its clients internationally through partners in various other countries.

 

Exhibitgroup/Giltspur is an award-winning experience marketing agency that specializes worldwide in exhibits, events, mobile marketing tours, permanent installations, temporary retail environments, and other face-to-face marketing services. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur combines its core services of custom design, construction and marketing expertise with an ability to provide complete event program management. It leverages its global network to efficiently manage client programs. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s services include: design; integrated marketing, including pre- and post event communications and customer relationship management; staff training; event surveys; program management and planning; logistics management; maintenance and warehousing; in-house installation and dismantling; show services; online program management tools and multimedia services. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur also provides portable and “modular” exhibits, and design, construction and installation services for permanent installations including museums, corporate lobbies, visitors centers, showrooms, and retail interiors. Through egRetail^sm in the United States and sddRetail^sm internationally, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur also produces retail merchandising units (or kiosks) for shopping malls and retail stores throughout the world. This group offers clients complete turnkey services, including design, engineering, graphic production, fabrication, warehousing, shipping and on-site installation of the retail merchandising units.

 

Exhibitgroup/Giltspur provides its services primarily to major domestic and international corporations. A majority of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s corporate clients are from the healthcare, consumer/entertainment, aerospace, real estate, and computer services and electronics industries. Many of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s clients attend events at which GES is the official services contractor or at which GES offers discretionary services. In these instances, an Exhibitgroup/Giltspur client may engage the services of GES for services such as material handling, carpeting, furniture and similar on-site discretionary services. Because of the complexity of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s custom exhibits, many of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s clients are likely to use ExpoServices (Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s wholly-owned installation and dismantling division) for installation and dismantle services.

 

Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s experienced designers, global network of facilities, strategic alliances and innovative technology make Exhibitgroup/Giltspur a leader in its industry. In 2008, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur was recognized by Event Marketing Magazine with a Gold Ex Award for a tradeshow exhibit for LG Electronics. Also in 2008, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur received two Medical Marketing Association In-Awe Awards for exhibit design and interactive technologies for a global pharmaceutical company’s exhibits and Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s German operations received two Exhibitor Magazine Design Awards for international exhibits.

 

With the acquisition of Becker Group, Viad expanded the creative and design capabilities and offerings of its Experiential Marketing Services segment to include a greater variety of immersive, entertaining attractions and brand-based experiences, sponsored events, mobile marketing tours and other place-based marketing solutions for clients and venues, including shopping malls, movie studios, museums, leading consumer brands and casinos. Becker Group specializes in providing holiday experiences

in shopping centers, lifestyle centers and other venues worldwide. Becker Group’s services also include the design and production of holiday and branded entertainment experiences on behalf of corporate and museum clients. Additional services include installation and management of these experiences. Becker Group’s retail clients include some of the top retail real estate developers in the world, many of which have been clients for ten or more years. Its recent branded entertainment projects include the museum touring exhibitions “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Exhibition” and “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” (premiering Spring 2009).

 

Travel and Recreation Services

 

Travel and recreation services are provided by the Brewster Inc. (“Brewster”) and Glacier Park, Inc. (“Glacier Park”) business units.

 

Brewster.  Brewster is a major tourism service operator in Western Canada, delivering tourism products that include world-class attractions, transportation services, inbound package tour operations and hotel operations. Approximately 80 percent of Brewster’s annual revenues are earned in the second and third quarters.

 

Brewster’s attractions are the Banff Gondola, tours of the Athabasca Glacier on the Columbia Icefield and boat tours on Lake Minnewanka. The Banff Gondola transports visitors to an elevation of over 7,000 feet above sea level to the top of Sulphur Mountain in Banff, Alberta, Canada, offering an unobstructed view of the Canadian Rockies and overlooking the town of Banff and the Bow Valley. Tours of the Athabasca Glacier on the Columbia Icefield provide customers with an opportunity to experience one of the largest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle. Icefield customers ride in an “Ice Explorer,” a unique vehicle specially designed for glacier travel. Brewster also offers boat tours, small boat rentals and charter fishing on Lake Minnewanka, which is situated outside of the town of Banff in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

 

Brewster’s transportation operations include charter motorcoach services, sightseeing and scheduled services and airport service. Brewster operates a modern fleet of luxury motorcoaches, available for groups of any size, for travel throughout the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. In addition, Brewster provides year-round half- and full-day sightseeing tours from Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, Canada.

 

Brewster’s inbound package tour operations feature year-round package tours throughout Canada. These packages include motorcoach, rail, self-drive automobile, ski and winter touring and consist of both group and individual tours and may be custom designed at the time of booking.

 

Brewster also operates two hotels in Alberta: the Mount Royal Hotel, which is located in the heart of Banff, and the Glacier View Inn (formerly, the Columbia Icefield Chalet), which is located on the Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper. The hotels principally cater to leisure travelers.

 

Each Brewster line of business has a different market profile, with customers who differ in terms of geographic origin and travel preferences. To deliver its products and services to the consumer, Brewster utilizes direct-to-consumer marketing strategies as well as a distribution channel network that includes tour operators, tour wholesalers, destination management companies and retail travel agencies/organizations. Brewster’s major markets are Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia/New Zealand, Taiwan/China, Japan and many European countries.

 

Glacier Park.  Glacier Park operates four historic lodges, three 1960s-era motor inns and one freestanding camp store in and around Glacier National Park in Montana and Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. Glacier Park is the largest concessionaire in Glacier National Park and generated approximately 67 percent of its total 2008 revenue through concession contracts for services provided within the borders of Glacier National Park. Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks encompass approximately 1.1 million acres of rugged wilderness and are best known for their spectacular scenery, hiking, glaciers and wildlife. Services provided by Glacier Park include lodging varying from hikers’ cabins to suites, food and beverage operations, retail operations and tour and transportation services. The tour operation utilizes a fleet of 33 authentic 1930s red touring buses that have rollback canvas tops. These well-known “reds” are used to conduct interpretive park tours throughout Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks, including tours of the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road.

 

The operations of Glacier Park are seasonal, typically running from mid-May until the end of September. During those months, Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks typically host over two million visitors, the vast majority of whom purchase services from Glacier Park. During the peak months of July and August, Glacier Park’s lodges and motor inns have an occupancy level of approximately 98 percent. During the “shoulder” months of June and September, occupancy is approximately 83 percent.

 

Individual travelers account for approximately 88 percent of Glacier Park’s customers, while tour groups account for the remaining 12 percent. Demographically, approximately 95 percent of Glacier Park’s guests come from the United States, with 20 percent to 25 percent from the Northwest and 12 percent to 15 percent from the Midwest.

Glacier Park operates the concession portion of its business under concession contracts with the U.S. National Park Service (the “Park Service”) for Glacier National Park and with the Canadian Government for Waterton Lakes National Park. Glacier Park’s 42-year lease with the Canadian Government expires in 2010 with Glacier Park having an option to renew for two additional terms of 42 years each. Glacier Park’s original 25-year concession contract with the Park Service that was to expire on December 31, 2005, has been extended for four one-year periods and now expires on December 31, 2009. The Park Service, in its sole discretion, may continue extending Glacier Park’s concession contract in one-year increments. When this contract ultimately expires, Glacier Park will have the opportunity to bid on a new concession contract. If Glacier Park does secure a new contract, possible terms would be for 10, 15 or 20 years. If a new concessionaire is selected by the Park Service, Glacier Park’s remaining business would consist of the operations at Waterton Lakes National Park and East Glacier, Montana, which generated approximately 33 percent of Glacier Park’s total revenue in 2008. In such a circumstance, Glacier Park would be entitled to an amount equal to its “possessory interest,” which generally means the value of the structures acquired or constructed, fixtures installed and improvements made to the concession property at Glacier National Park during the term of the concession contract. This value would be based on the reconstruction cost of a new unit of like kind, less physical depreciation, but not to exceed fair market value. Glacier Park generated approximately 22 percent of Travel and Recreation Services’ full year 2008 segment operating income.

 

Competition

 

GES and the Experiential Marketing Services segments generally compete on the basis of discernible differences, value, quality, price, convenience and service, and encounter substantial competition from a large number of providers of similar services. Most of the competitors of GES and Experiential Marketing Services are privately-held companies and thus limited information about these companies is available. Based on internal estimates, the dominant competitor in GES’ industry is Freeman Companies. No competitor dominates the industries in which Experiential Marketing Services competes. The operations of Brewster and Glacier Park generally compete on the basis of location, uniqueness of facilities, service, quality and price. Competition exists both locally and regionally in the package-tour business, hotel and restaurant facilities and charter companies.

 

Intellectual Property

 

Viad owns a number of trademarks, patents and copyrights. The Viad companies own or have the right to many registered trademarks used in their various businesses, including, among others, GES^®, GES Exposition Services^®, BOOTHBUILDER^®, ExhibitSelect^®, GES Servicenter^®, GES National Servicenter^®, HANG:RZ^®, The Becker Group^®, Toys Thru Time Hall of Fame^®, Trade Show Electrical^®, Trade Show Rigging TSR^®, TSE Trade Show Electrical & Design^®, ethnoMetrics^®, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur^®, ExpoTech^®, Exhibitgroup^®, EMAX^®, DEXZ^®, WAM! The Wireless Ambassador^® and LUMA2 & Design^®. Some of the Company’s trademarks are also registered outside the United States, including the Melville lion image, Maxim^®, Royal Glacier Tours^®, Emax^®, Exhibitgroup^® and Giltspur^®. United States trademark registrations are for a term of ten years and are renewable every ten years as long as the trademarks are used in the regular course of trade.

 

Exhibitgroup/Giltspur owns a number of patents for exhibit technology and exhibit processes that are cumulatively important to its business and that it believes provide competitive advantages in the marketplace for designing and building exhibits. These include patents relating to modular furniture used in exhibits and displays, a multiple-panel display system and a modular structure having a load-bearing surface. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur also owns a number of design patents for its retail merchandising units. United States utility patents are currently granted for a term of 20 years from the date a patent application is filed and United States design patents are currently granted for a term of 14 years from the date granted. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur and Becker Group have extensive design libraries with copyright protections, and own copyright registrations for a number of the designs within their respective design libraries. Copyright protection for such work is 95 years from the date of publication or 120 years from creation, whichever is shorter.

 

Although Viad believes that certain of its trademarks, patents and copyrights have substantial value, it does not believe that the loss of any one of these patents, trademarks or copyrights would have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations.

 

Government Regulation

 

Compliance with legal requirements and government regulations represents a normal cost of doing business. The principal regulations affecting the day-to-day businesses are rules and regulations relating to transportation (such as regulations promulgated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and its state counterparts), employees (such as regulations implemented by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, equal employment opportunity laws, guidelines implemented pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act and general federal and state employment laws), unionized labor (such as guidelines imposed by

the National Labor Relations Act) and regulations relating to national parks (such as regulations established by the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. National Park Service).

 

Employees

 

Viad’s businesses had approximately 3,950 employees as of December 31, 2008 as follows:

 

 

Viad believes that relations with its employees are satisfactory and that collective bargaining agreements expiring in 2009 will be renegotiated in the ordinary course of business without a material adverse effect on Viad’s operations.

 

Viad had 53 corporate employees as of December 31, 2008 providing management, financial and accounting, internal auditing, tax, administrative, human resources, corporate development, legal and other services to its operating units and handling residual matters pertaining to businesses previously discontinued or sold by the Company. Viad is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of eight non-employee directors and one employee director and has an executive management team consisting of six Viad officers (including the one employee director) and four principal executives of significant operating divisions or companies.

 

Seasonality

 

Exhibition and event activity may vary significantly depending on the frequency and timing of shows (some shows are not held each year and some may shift between quarters). Viad’s travel and recreation businesses experience peak activity during the summer months. Viad’s 2008 segment operating income, as a percentage of the full year’s segment operating income, was approximately 35 percent (first quarter), 26 percent (second quarter), 32 percent (third quarter) and 7 percent (fourth quarter). See “Risk Factors − Viad’s businesses are seasonal, which causes results of operations to fluctuate and makes results of operations particularly sensitive to adverse events during peak periods” and “Risk Factors − Exhibition rotation may impact overall profitability and makes comparisons between periods difficult” in Item 1A, which are incorporated herein by reference; see also Notes 21 and 24 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

Financial Information about Restructuring Charges and Recoveries

 

Information regarding restructuring charges and recoveries is provided in Note 17 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

Financial Information about Segments

 

Business segment financial information is provided in Note 21 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

Financial Information about Geographic Areas

 

Geographic area financial information is provided in Note 21 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

Certifications of Viad’s CEO and CFO

 

The listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) require the chief executive officer of each listed company to submit to the NYSE within 30 days after the company’s annual shareholders meeting an “Annual CEO Certification” certifying that the chief executive officer is not aware of any violation by the company of the corporate governance listing standards of the NYSE. Viad held its annual shareholders meeting on May 20, 2008. Mr. Paul B. Dykstra, Chief Executive Officer of Viad, submitted a signed “Annual CEO Certification” to the NYSE on May 23, 2008.

 

The certifications required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Viad are filed as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2, respectively, to this Annual Report.

Available Information

 

Viad files annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). These filings can be read and copied at the SEC’s public reference section, located in Room 1580, 100 F. Street N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549 and on the SEC’s internet site at www.sec.gov. Information regarding the operation of the public reference section can be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Viad’s principal internet address is www.viad.com. Viad makes available free of charge on www.viad.com its annual, quarterly and current reports, and amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after it electronically files such material with, or furnishes to, the SEC.

 

Viad maintains a corporate governance page on its website at www.viad.com/pdf/corpgovernance/CodeofEthics.pdf, which includes key information about its corporate governance initiatives, including its Corporate Governance Guidelines, charters of the committees of the Board of Directors and Code of Ethics which are also available in print to any shareholder upon request.

 

 

Because of the following, as well as other variables affecting Viad’s operating results, past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods:

 

Viad’s businesses and operating results are adversely affected by deterioration in general economic conditions.

 

Viad’s businesses are sensitive to fluctuations in general economic conditions and are impacted by increases and decreases in the cost of materials and operating supplies. Operating results for GES and Experiential Marketing Services depend largely on the number of exhibitions held and on the size of exhibitors’ marketing expenditures. These factors depend in part on the strengths or weaknesses of particular industries in which exhibitors operate. The number and size of exhibitions generally decrease during periods of adverse economic conditions and increase when general economic conditions are positive.

 

Further, many exhibitors view a portion of their marketing budget as discretionary, and, as a result, marketing budgets are frequently among the first expenditures reduced by exhibitors when general economic conditions deteriorate, resulting in exhibitors reusing or refurbishing old exhibits rather than purchasing new exhibits. Marketing expenditures often are not increased, and new exhibits not purchased, until general economic conditions improve. As a result, during periods of adverse general economic conditions, the operating results of GES and Experiential Marketing Services are adversely affected. Similarly, many of the retail shopping mall and lifestyle center customers of Experiential Marketing Services view a portion of their marketing budgets as discretionary, and, as a result, those customers may refurbish their existing retail merchandise units (or kiosks) and their holiday-themed exhibits and experiences rather than purchasing new products from Experiential Marketing Services.

 

Revenues from the travel and recreation businesses depend largely on the amount of disposable income that consumers have available for travel and vacations. This amount decreases during periods of weak general economic conditions.

 

Viad’s foreign operations are impacted by changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

 

Viad conducts its foreign operations primarily in Canada and in the United Kingdom, and to a lesser extent in certain other European countries. The functional currency of Viad’s foreign subsidiaries is their local currency. Accordingly, for purposes of consolidation, Viad translates the assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars at the foreign exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. The unrealized gains or losses resulting from the translation of these foreign denominated assets and liabilities are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets. As a result, significant fluctuations in foreign exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar may result in material changes to Viad’s net equity position reported in its consolidated balance sheets. Viad does not currently hedge its equity risk arising from the translation of foreign denominated assets and liabilities.

 

In addition, for purposes of consolidation, the revenues, expenses and gains and losses related to Viad’s foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average foreign exchange rates for the period. As a result, Viad’s consolidated results of operations are exposed to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates as the operating results of its foreign subsidiaries, when translated, may vary from period to period, even when the functional currency amounts have not changed. Accordingly, fluctuations in the exchange rates may adversely impact overall expected profitability and historical period to period comparisons. Viad does not currently hedge its net earnings exposure arising from the translation of its foreign operating results.

 

During 2008, approximately 23 percent of revenue and 44 percent of operating income of Viad was derived through its Canadian and United Kingdom operations. During 2008, approximately 75 percent of revenue and 82 percent of operating income generated in Viad’s Travel and Recreation Services segment was derived through its Canadian operations. These operations are

largely dependent on foreign customer visitation, and accordingly, increases in the value of the Canadian dollar compared to other currencies could adversely affect customer volumes, and therefore, revenue and operating income in the Travel and Recreation Services segment.

 

Exhibition rotation may impact overall profitability and makes comparisons between periods difficult.

 

The business activities of GES and Experiential Marketing Services are largely dependent upon the frequency, timing and location of exhibitions and events as certain large exhibitions are not held annually (they may be held once every two or three years or longer), and some large exhibitions may be held at a different time of year than when they have historically been held. In addition, the same exhibition may be held in different locations in different years.

 

The results of operations of GES and Experiential Marketing Services can fluctuate significantly as a result of this rotation. The rotation of exhibitions requires Viad to maintain a high degree of flexibility of resources (including personnel and equipment) and may result in a business generating lower margins in a given period if exhibitions shift to higher-cost cities. As a consequence of these factors, the operating results for these businesses may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter or from year to year, making periodic comparisons difficult.

 

Viad’s businesses are adversely affected by disruptions in the travel industry, particularly those adversely affecting the hotel and airline industries.

 

The success of Viad’s businesses depends largely on the ability and willingness of people, whether exhibitors, exhibition attendees or other travelers, to travel, which is in turn dependent upon their ability and willingness to find and use transportation alternatives and accommodations. As a result, factors adversely affecting the travel industry as a whole, and particularly the airline and hotel industries, generally also adversely affect Viad’s businesses and results of operations. Factors that could adversely affect the travel industry as a whole include high or rising fuel prices, increased security and passport requirements, weather conditions, airline accidents and international political instability and hostilities. Unexpected events of this nature in the future, or other events that may have an impact on the availability and pricing of air travel and accommodations, could adversely affect Viad’s businesses and results of operations.

 

The failure of a large customer to renew its services contract or the loss of business from convention facilities would adversely impact revenues.

 

Although no single customer accounts for more than ten percent of the revenue of any of Viad’s business segments, GES has a relatively small number of large exhibition show organizers and Experiential Marketing Services has a number of large customer accounts. The loss of any of these large customers would adversely affect results of operations.

 

In addition, GES’ revenues may be significantly impacted if certain convention facilities choose to in-source electrical, plumbing and other services that have represented revenue-generating opportunities for GES. When GES is hired as the official services contractor for an exhibition, the exhibition organizer contractually grants GES an exclusive right to perform these electrical and plumbing services, subject in each case to the convention facility’s option to in-source the services (either by performing the services themselves or by hiring a separate service provider). Many convention facilities are under financial pressure as a result of conditions generally affecting their industry, including an increased supply of convention space. As a result, some of these convention facilities may seek to in-source all or a large portion of these services. If a large number of facilities with which GES has these relationships seek to move these services in-house, GES’ revenues and operating results could be adversely affected.

 

Viad’s key businesses are relationship driven.

 

The business activities of GES and Experiential Marketing Services are heavily focused on client relationships, and, specifically, on the close collaboration and interaction between teams from the client and GES or Experiential Marketing Services, as the case may be. These relationships require the account team to become attuned to the client’s desires and expectations in order to provide top-quality service. Viad has in the past lost, and may in the future lose, important customers (and corresponding revenues) if a key member of the account team were to cease employment with the Company and take that customer to a competitor.

 

Completed acquisitions may not perform as anticipated or be integrated as planned.

 

We have acquired businesses and intend to continue to pursue opportunities to acquire businesses that could complement, enhance or expand our current businesses or offer growth opportunities to Viad. Any acquisition can involve a number of risks,

including: the failure to achieve the financial and strategic goals and other benefits from the acquisition; the inability to successfully integrate the acquired business into Viad’s on-going businesses; the inability to retain key personnel or customers of the acquired business; the inability to successfully integrate financial reporting and internal control systems; the disruption of Viad’s ongoing businesses and distraction of senior management and employees of Viad from other opportunities and challenges due to the integration of the acquired business; and the potential existence of liabilities or contingencies not disclosed to or known by Viad prior to closing the acquisition or not otherwise provided for through the purchase agreement.

 

Viad’s businesses are seasonal, which causes results of operations to fluctuate and makes results of operations particularly sensitive to adverse events during peak periods.

 

GES generally reports its highest revenues during the first quarter of each year and Experiential Marketing Services generally reports higher revenues during the second and fourth quarters. The travel and recreation businesses are also seasonal, experiencing peak activity during the second and third quarters. These quarters accounted for approximately 86 percent of the travel and recreation businesses’ 2008 revenues. Because of the seasonal nature of these businesses, adverse events or conditions occurring during peak periods could adversely affect the operating results of Viad’s businesses.

 

Transportation disruptions and increases in transportation costs could adversely affect Viad’s businesses and operating results.

 

GES and Experiential Marketing Services rely on independent transportation carriers to send materials and exhibits to and from exhibitions, warehouse facilities and customer facilities. If they were unable to secure the services of these independent transportation carriers at favorable rates, it could have a material adverse effect on these businesses and their results of operations. In addition, disruption of transportation services because of weather-related problems, strikes, lockouts or other events could adversely affect their ability to supply services to customers and could cause the cancellation of exhibitions, which may have a material adverse effect on these businesses and operating results. Similarly, disruption of transportation services could adversely affect Experiential Marketing Services’ ability to supply time-sensitive holiday-themed exhibits and experiences to retail shopping mall and lifestyle center customers and could cause the cancellation of the exhibits and experiences.

 

Union-represented labor creates an increased risk of work stoppages and higher labor costs.

 

A significant portion of Viad’s employees are unionized and Viad’s businesses are party to approximately 100 collective-bargaining agreements, with approximately one-fourth requiring renegotiation each year. If labor negotiations were to force the Company to increase wages or benefits and thus increase total labor costs, the increased costs could either be absorbed (which would adversely affect operating margins) or passed on to the customers, which may lead customers to turn to other vendors in response to higher prices. In either event, Viad’s businesses and results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

Moreover, if the Company were unable to reach an agreement with a union during the collective bargaining process, the union may call for a strike or other work stoppage. In such a circumstance, Viad might be unable to find substitute workers with the necessary skills to perform many of the services, or may incur additional costs to do so, which could adversely affect the Company’s businesses and results of operations.

 

Viad competes in competitive industries and increased competition could negatively impact operating results.

 

Viad competes in highly competitive industries. Competition in the convention and event services and exhibits and environments industries is on the basis of price and service level, among other things. To the extent competitors seek to gain or retain their market presence through aggressive underpricing strategies, Viad may be required to lower its prices and rates, thereby adversely affecting operating results. If Viad were unable to meet the challenges presented by the competitive environment, results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

Liabilities relating to prior and discontinued operations may adversely affect results of operations.

 

Viad and its predecessors have a corporate history spanning over seven decades and involving approximately 2,400 previous subsidiaries in diverse businesses, such as the manufacturing of locomotives, buses, industrial chemicals, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, leather, textiles, food and fresh meats. Some of these businesses used raw materials that have been, and may continue to be, the subject of litigation. Moreover, some of the raw materials used and the waste produced by these businesses have been and are the subject of U.S. federal and state environmental regulations, including laws enacted under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, or its state law counterparts. In addition, Viad may incur other liabilities, resulting from indemnification claims involving sold subsidiaries as well as from past operations of those of predecessors or their subsidiaries. Although the Company believes it has adequate reserves and sufficient insurance coverage

to cover these future liabilities, results of operations could be materially affected if future events or proceedings contradict current assumptions, and reserves or insurance become inadequate.

 

 

None.

 

 

Viad’s businesses operate service or production facilities and maintain sales and service offices in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The following information summarizes the principal properties of Viad’s businesses as of December 31, 2008.

 

Viad’s headquarters are located at 1850 North Central Avenue, Suite 800 in Phoenix, Arizona 85004-4545. Excluding space which is subleased to third parties, Viad leases approximately 48,000 square feet.

 

GES operates 17 offices and 42 multi-use facilities (manufacturing, sales and design, office and/or warehouse). The multi-use facilities vary in size up to approximately 882,000 square feet. Four of the multi-use facilities are owned; all other properties are leased. All of the properties are in the United States, except for three offices and seven multi-use facilities that are located in Canada, seven multi-use facilities in the United Kingdom, one office in Germany and one office in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. GES corporate headquarters are located in Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

Experiential Marketing Services operates ten offices and 23 multi-use facilities (manufacturing, sales and design, office and/or warehouse). The multi-use facilities vary in size up to approximately 260,000 square feet. All properties are leased and are located in the United States, except for one office located in Toronto, Canada, two offices located in Sheffield and Stavely, England and two multi-use facilities located in Velbert, Germany. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s client care headquarters are located in Chicago, Illinois and Dallas, Texas and Becker Group’s headquarters are located in Baltimore, Maryland.

 

Travel and Recreation Services operates two offices, nine retail stores, two bus terminals, three garages, an icefield tour facility, a gondola lift operation, a boat tour facility and nine hotels/lodges (with approximately 900 rooms and ancillary foodservice and recreational facilities). All of the facilities are in the United States or Canada. Four of the hotels/lodges are owned and the five other hotels/lodges are operated pursuant to concessionaire agreements. Two bus terminals, two garages and the boat tour facility are owned and one garage is leased. The icefield tour facility and gondola lift operation are operated through lease agreements with Parks Canada and all other properties are leased.

 

Management believes that the Company’s facilities in the aggregate are adequate and suitable for their purposes and that capacity is sufficient for current needs.

 

 

Viad and certain subsidiaries are plaintiffs or defendants to various actions, proceedings and pending claims, some of which involve, or may involve, compensatory, punitive or other damages. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties and it is possible that some of the legal actions, proceedings or claims could be decided against Viad. Although the amount of liability as of December 31, 2008 with respect to certain of these matters is not ascertainable, Viad believes that any resulting liability, after taking into consideration amounts already provided for, including insurance coverage, will not have a material effect on Viad’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

Viad is subject to various U.S. federal, state and foreign laws and regulations governing the prevention of pollution and the protection of the environment in the jurisdictions in which Viad has or had operations. If the Company has failed to comply with these environmental laws and regulations, civil and criminal penalties could be imposed and Viad could become subject to regulatory enforcement actions in the form of injunctions and cease and desist orders. As is the case with many companies, Viad also faces exposure for actual or potential claims and lawsuits involving environmental matters relating to its past operations. Although it is a party to certain environmental disputes, Viad believes that any resulting liabilities, after taking into consideration amounts already provided for, including insurance coverage, will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.

 

 

No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2008.

 

The names, ages and positions of the Executive Officers of Viad as of the filing of this Annual Report, are listed below:

 

 

The term of office of the Executive Officers is until the next annual organization meeting of the Board of Directors of Viad which is scheduled for May 19, 2009.

 

 

The principal market on which Viad’s common stock is traded is the New York Stock Exchange. The common stock is also admitted for trading on the American, Chicago, Cincinnati, Pacific and Philadelphia Exchanges. The following tables summarize the high and low market prices as reported on the NYSE Composite Tape and the cash dividends declared for the two years ended December 31:

 

SALES PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK

 

 

DIVIDENDS DECLARED ON COMMON STOCK

 

 

Regular quarterly dividends were paid on Viad common stock on the first business day of January, April, July and October. The terms of Viad’s $150 million secured revolving credit facility restrict Viad from paying more than $10 million in dividends in the aggregate in any calendar year.

 

As of January 31, 2009, there were 8,335 shareholders of record of Viad’s common stock following the one-for-four reverse stock split effective on July 1, 2004. There also were 2,450 shareholders of record as of January 31, 2009 that had not converted pre-split shares into the post-split common stock. Accordingly, there were a total of 10,785 shareholders of record as of January 31, 2009.

 

For information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and related shareholder matters, refer to Part III, Item 12, “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters” in this Annual Report.

 

SHAREHOLDER RETURN PERFORMANCE GRAPH

 

Set forth below is a line graph comparing, for the five year period ended December 31, 2008, the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total shareholder return on Viad’s common stock to the cumulative total return of the Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Media Index, Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Commercial Services & Supplies Index, Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Index, Standard & Poor’s SmallCap Diversified Commercial & Professional Services Index, Russell 2000 Index and Standard & Poor’s 500 Index.

 

The graph below assumes $100 was invested on December 31, 2003 in Viad common stock, Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Media Index, Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Commercial Services & Supplies Index, Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Index, Russell 2000 Index and Standard & Poor’s 500 Index with reinvestment of all dividends, including Viad’s distribution to shareholders of MoneyGram common stock on June 30, 2004 as part of the spin-off of MoneyGram International Inc. (“MoneyGram”). For purposes of this graph, the MoneyGram distribution was treated as a non-taxable cash dividend that was converted into additional Viad shares at the close of business on July 1, 2004. To calculate the cumulative total shareholder return and provide comparability over all five years shown on the graph below, the number of shares of Viad common stock outstanding and per share data for all years reported in the graph below have been adjusted to reflect the one-for-four reverse stock split effective on July 1, 2004, which occurred immediately after the MoneyGram spin-off.

Comparison of Five-Year Cumulative Total Return
(Includes cash value of June 30, 2004 MoneyGram spin-off
dividend and reflects July 1, 2004 one-for-four reverse stock split)

 

 

 

 

 

Set forth below is a table showing the total number of shares of Viad common stock repurchased during the fourth quarter of 2008 by Viad either on the open market as part of a repurchase program or from employees and former employees surrendering previously owned Viad common stock (outstanding shares) to pay for a portion of the exercise price in connection with the exercise of stock options, or to pay the taxes in connection with the vesting of restricted stock awards:

 

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

 

 

 

 

VIAD CORP
SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA

 

 

 

 

 

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with Viad Corp’s consolidated financial statements and related notes. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Viad Corp’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated due to various factors discussed under “Risk Factors,” “Forward-Looking Statements” and elsewhere in this Annual Report.

 

Overview:

 

On January 4, 2008, Viad Corp (“Viad” or the “Company”) completed the acquisition of The Becker Group, Ltd. (“Becker Group”), an experiential marketing company specializing in creating immersive, entertaining attractions and brand-based experiences for clients and venues, including shopping malls, movie studios, museums, leading consumer brands and casinos. With more than 50 years of experience, Becker Group is the leading provider of large-scale, holiday-themed events and experiences for regional shopping malls and lifestyle centers in North America. Becker Group has been included with Exhibitgroup/Giltspur to form the Experiential Marketing Services segment.

 

Viad operates in three reportable business segments as follows:

 

GES − GES Exposition Services, Inc. (“GES”) and its segment affiliates provide exhibition and event services throughout North America and the United Kingdom consisting of: show planning and production; floor plan design and layout; decorating, graphics and signage, and furniture, carpet and fixture procurement and rental. These services are provided to a variety of show organizers, including venues, trade associations and show management companies. GES’ customer base also includes exhibitors for which GES provides exhibit design, construction, refurbishment, storage and rental services, including related show services such as logistics and transportation; material handling, electrical, plumbing, rigging and cleaning, and exhibit installation and dismantling.

 

Experiential Marketing Services − This segment consists of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur, a division of Viad, and its affiliated companies, including SDD Exhibitions Limited and Voblo Verwaltungs GmbH (“Exhibitgroup/Giltspur”) and Becker Group. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur is an integrated experience marketing agency that specializes in exhibits, events and other face-to-face marketing opportunities. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur combines its core services of custom design, construction and marketing expertise with an ability to provide complete event program management. It leverages its global network to efficiently manage client programs. Its services include: design; integrated marketing including pre- and post event communications and customer relationship management; staff training; event surveys; program management and planning; logistics management; maintenance and warehousing; in-house installation and dismantling; show services; online program management tools and multimedia services. Exhibitgroup/Giltspur also provides portable and “modular” exhibits, kiosks for shopping malls and retail stores, and design, construction and installation services for permanent installations including museums, corporate lobbies, visitors’ centers, showrooms and retail interiors. Becker Group is an experiential marketing company specializing in creating immersive, entertaining attractions and brand-based experiences for clients and venues, including shopping malls, movie studios, museums, leading consumer brands and casinos. Becker Group is the leading provider of large-scale, holiday-themed events and experiences for regional shopping malls and lifestyle centers in North America.

 

Travel and Recreation Services − Brewster Inc. (“Brewster”) provides tourism services in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta and in other parts of Western Canada. Brewster’s operations include the Banff Gondola, Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer Tours, motorcoach services, charter and sightseeing services, tour boat operations, inbound package tour operations and hotel operations. Glacier Park, Inc. (“Glacier Park”) operates four historic lodges and three motor inns and provides food and beverage operations, retail operations and tour and transportation services in and around Glacier National Park in Montana and Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. Glacier Park is an 80 percent owned subsidiary of Viad.

 

The following 2008 financial highlights are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”):

 

Viad Corp (Consolidated)

 

 

 

  GES

 

 

  Experiential Marketing Services

 

 

  Travel and Recreation Services

 

 

Non-GAAP Measure:

 

The following discussion includes a presentation of Adjusted EBITDA, which is utilized by management to measure the profit and performance of Viad’s operations and to facilitate period to period comparisons. “Adjusted EBITDA” is defined by Viad as net income before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, impairment losses and recoveries, changes in accounting principles and the effects of discontinued operations. The presentation of Adjusted EBITDA is supplemental to results presented under GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Adjusted EBITDA is considered a useful operating metric as potential variations arising from taxes, depreciation, debt service costs, impairment losses and recoveries, changes in accounting principles and the effects of discontinued operations are eliminated, thus resulting in an additional measure considered to be indicative of Viad’s ongoing operations. This non-GAAP measure should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP.

 

Management believes that the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA provides useful information to investors regarding Viad’s results of operations for trending, analyzing and benchmarking the performance and value of Viad’s business. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA primarily as a performance measure and believes that the GAAP financial measure most directly comparable to this non-GAAP measure is net income. Although Adjusted EBITDA is used as a financial measure to assess the performance of the business, the use of Adjusted EBITDA is limited because it does not consider material costs, expenses and other items necessary to operate the business. These items include debt service costs, non-cash depreciation and amortization expense associated with long-lived assets, expenses related to U.S. federal, state, local and foreign income taxes, impairment losses or recoveries, and the effects of accounting changes and discontinued operations. Because Adjusted EBITDA does not consider the above items, a user of Viad’s financial information should consider net income as an important measure of financial performance because it provides a more complete measure of the Company’s performance.

A reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income is as follows:

 

 

The increase in Adjusted EBITDA of $18.3 million from 2007 to 2008 was primarily driven by favorable operating income at GES and Exhibitgroup/Giltspur and lower corporate activities expense, partially offset by lower interest income. The slight increase in Adjusted EBITDA of $535,000 from 2006 to 2007 was primarily driven by favorable operating income at GES and lower corporate activities expense, mostly offset by unfavorable operating results at Exhibitgroup/Giltspur, lower interest income, higher restructuring costs and the 2006 gains on sale of corporate assets.

 

Results of Operations:

 

2008 vs. 2007:

 

Revenues for 2008 increased 11.7 percent to $1.1 billion from $1.0 billion in 2007. The increase was a result of strong growth at both GES and Exhibitgroup/Giltspur, as well as the acquisition of Becker Group. Income before income taxes and minority interest was $64.2 million for 2008 compared to $62.7 million for 2007. Income from continuing operations for 2008 was $43.0 million, or $2.10 per diluted share, compared to $42.5 million, or $2.04 per diluted share, in 2007. The increase in income from continuing operations was largely due to an increase in segment operating income and higher tax benefits of $5.7 million in 2008 (versus $3.1 million in 2007) related to the favorable resolution of tax matters. These favorable items were mostly offset by impairment charges of $11.2 million ($9.4 million after-tax), including $8.6 million primarily related to goodwill and other intangible assets at Becker Group and $2.6 million related to certain intangible assets associated with Melville, GES’ United Kingdom operation.

 

Net income for 2008 was $43.4 million, or $2.12 per diluted share, compared to $44.6 million, or $2.14 per diluted share, for 2007. Net income for 2008 includes income from discontinued operations of $385,000, or $0.02 per diluted share, relating to certain obligations associated with previously sold operations. Net income for 2007 includes income from discontinued operations of $2.0 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, relating to the settlement of a real estate participation interest associated with a parcel of land sold by a discontinued operation several years ago.

 

GES. Revenues for GES were $808.8 million for 2008, an increase of 8.3 percent from the 2007 amount of $746.7 million. The increase was primarily driven by positive show rotation revenue of $63 million and strong exhibitor discretionary spending on the rotating shows, partially offset by a 3.2 percent decline in base same-show revenue. Management defines base same-show revenue as revenue from exhibitions and events that occur in the same quarter and same city every year. Base same shows represented approximately 34 percent of GES’ revenue in 2008.

 

Segment operating income increased 14.3 percent to $58.1 million in 2008 as compared to $50.8 million in 2007, primarily as a result of the revenue growth. Operating margins were 7.2 percent in 2008 as compared to 6.8 percent in 2007.

 

In general, the exhibition and event industry is experiencing signs of the economic slow-down, which is negatively impacting trade show attendance and exhibitor participation. Additionally, the pricing environment remains somewhat challenging. The prospects for individual shows tend to be driven by the success of the industry related to those shows. Although GES has a diversified revenue base and long-term contracts for future shows, revenue growth is affected by general economic and industry-specific conditions. In 2009, management expects same-show revenues to decline by approximately 10 percent and show rotation to negatively impact revenues by approximately $85 million due to several major, non-annual shows that occurred in 2008. Additionally, management expects the stronger U.S. dollar to result in unfavorable currency translation of approximately $25 million in revenue as compared to 2008. Management remains focused on increasing productivity and controlling costs, including the implementation of cost reduction efforts.

 

GES and Exhibitgroup/Giltspur are subject to multiple collective bargaining agreements that affect labor costs, about one-fourth of which expire each year. Although labor relations between the companies and labor are currently stable, disruptions during

future contract negotiations could occur, with the possibility of an adverse impact on the operating results of GES and/or Exhibitgroup/Giltspur.

 

Experiential Marketing Services. Revenues of the Experiential Marketing Services segment were $225.4 million in 2008, up 30.5 percent from $172.7 million in 2007. Included in the 2008 amount was $25.4 million of revenue earned by Becker Group. On an organic basis (without Becker Group’s revenue), revenue increased 15.8 percent to $200.0 million as compared to $172.7 million in 2007 driven by new business and increased revenue from existing clients at Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. Segment operating income for 2008 was $1.9 million (including a loss of $677,000 from Becker Group) compared to an operating loss of $4.8 million for 2007. On an organic basis (without Becker Group’s operating loss), segment operating results improved by $7.4 million to $2.6 million due to the revenue growth at Exhibitgroup/Giltspur.

 

In response to a challenging exhibit construction market, management is focused on repositioning Exhibitgroup/Giltspur as an experience marketing agency to capture a greater share of clients’ marketing budgets by delivering comprehensive, innovative, value-added solutions that enable clients to generate a higher return on their face-to-face marketing investments. Management is also focused on improving the sales pipeline and win rate to drive profitable revenue growth, as well as cost control, productivity enhancements and increased capacity utilization in order to improve profitability in future years.

 

Revenue growth is affected by general economic and industry-specific conditions and visibility over future revenues continues to be poor. Although the Experiential Marketing Services segment has a diversified revenue base, a portion of the segment’s revenue is generated from sales to regional shopping malls and lifestyle centers, including sales of holiday-themed events and experiences and retail merchandising units. As a result of the economic slow-down, management is expecting both shopping center clients and exhibitors to reduce their spending in 2009. Additionally, management expects the stronger U.S. dollar to result in unfavorable currency translation of approximately $9 million in revenue as compared to 2008.

 

Travel and Recreation Services. Revenues of the Travel and Recreation Services segment were $86.6 million for 2008, an increase of 2.8 percent from $84.2 million in 2007. Segment operating income was $22.0 million in 2008 compared to $22.7 million in 2007. Operating margins were 25.4 percent for 2008 compared to 27.0 percent in 2007. As discussed below, results in this segment were favorably impacted by exchange rates during 2008 resulting in approximately $1.3 million and $422,000 in additional revenue and segment operating income, respectively, as compared to 2007. Brewster experienced a decline in passenger volumes as a result of reduced international travel to Canada. Glacier Park realized improved occupancy and room revenue at its inns and lodges due to stronger domestic travel.

 

During 2008, approximately 75 percent of revenue and 82 percent of operating income generated by Viad’s Travel and Recreation Services segment was derived through its Canadian operations. These operations are largely dependent on foreign customer visitation, and accordingly, increases in the value of the Canadian dollar compared to other currencies could adversely affect customer volumes, and, therefore, revenue and operating income in the Travel and Recreation Services segment.

 

The operating results related to Viad’s Canadian Travel and Recreation Services subsidiaries were translated into U.S. dollars at weighted-average exchange rates of 0.98 and 0.95 for 2008 and 2007, respectively. Accordingly, Viad’s consolidated results of operations have been favorably impacted by the strengthening of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar as it relates to the translation of its Canadian Travel and Recreation Services operations. Decreases in the exchange rates may adversely impact overall expected profitability and historical period to period comparisons when operating results are translated into U.S. dollars.

 

Viad’s Travel and Recreations Services segment is affected by consumer discretionary spending on tourism activities. As a result of the global economic slowdown, management expects results in its Travel and Recreation Services segment to be impacted by tourism declines in 2009. Additionally, management expects the stronger U.S. dollar to result in unfavorable currency translation of approximately $8 million in revenue as compared to 2008.

 

Glacier Park operates the concession portion of its business under concession contracts with the U.S. National Park Service (the “Park Service”) for Glacier National Park and with the Canadian Government for Waterton Lakes National Park. Glacier Park’s 42-year lease with the Canadian Government expires in 2010 with Glacier Park having an option to renew for two additional terms of 42 years each. Glacier Park’s original 25-year concession contract with the Park Service that was to expire on December 31, 2005, has been extended for four one-year periods and now expires on December 31, 2009. The Park Service, in its sole discretion, may continue extending Glacier Park’s concession contract in one-year increments. When this contract ultimately expires, Glacier Park will have the opportunity to bid on a new concession contract. If Glacier Park does secure a new contract, possible terms would be for 10, 15 or 20 years. If a new concessionaire is selected by the Park Service, Glacier Park’s remaining business would consist of the operations at Waterton Lakes National Park and East Glacier, Montana, which generated approximately 33 percent of Glacier Park’s total revenue in 2008. In such a circumstance, Glacier Park would be entitled to an amount equal to its “possessory interest,” which generally means the value of the structures acquired or constructed, fixtures installed and improvements made to the concession property at Glacier National Park during the term of the concession contract.

This value would be based on the reconstruction cost of a new unit of like kind, less physical depreciation, but not to exceed fair market value. Glacier Park generated approximately 22 percent of Travel and Recreation Services’ full year 2008 segment operating income.

 

Corporate Activities. Corporate activities expense of $7.5 million for 2008 decreased from $9.2 million in 2007. This decrease was primarily related to a reduction in share-based compensation expense in 2008.

 

Interest Income. Interest income of $3.2 million for 2008 decreased from $6.1 million for 2007. The decrease was due to lower interest rates as well as lower average cash balances in 2008 as compared to 2007 resulting from Viad’s acquisitions and share repurchases.

 

Impairment Losses and Recoveries. In 2008, Viad recorded impairment charges of $11.2 million ($9.4 million after-tax), including $8.6 million primarily related to goodwill and other intangible assets at Becker Group and $2.6 million related to certain intangible assets associated with Melville. Viad recorded impairment recoveries of $172,000 ($105,000 after-tax) in 2007 comprised of insurance recoveries relating to assets that were damaged as a result of Hurricane Katrina.

 

Restructuring Charges and Recoveries. In 2008, Viad recorded a restructuring charge of $647,000 ($402,000 after-tax) primarily related to corporate office expenses, including the elimination of certain positions. In 2007, Viad recorded restructuring charges of $2.0 million ($1.2 million after-tax) related to severance costs associated with an organizational realignment at Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. In 2008 and 2007, Viad also reversed $141,000 ($85,000 after-tax) and $589,000 ($360,000 after-tax), respectively, related to certain restructuring costs that were less than previous estimates.

 

Income Taxes. The effective tax rate on income before income taxes and minority interest for 2008 was 32.2 percent compared to 31.0 percent for 2007. The relatively low effective tax rates compared to the statutory rate were primarily attributable to the favorable resolution of tax matters of $5.7 million and $3.1 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively. In addition, Viad recorded a tax benefit of $1.3 million in 2007 related to the remeasurement of certain deferred tax liabilities due to a reduction in the enacted tax rates in Canada.

 

2007 vs. 2006:

 

Revenues for 2007 increased 17.3 percent to $1.0 billion from $856.0 million in 2006. The increase was a result of strong growth at both GES (including the acquisition of Melville) and Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. Income before income taxes and minority interest was $62.7 million for 2007 compared to $61.6 million for 2006. Income from continuing operations for 2007 was $42.5 million, or $2.04 per diluted share, down from $51.3 million, or $2.35 per diluted share, in 2006. The decrease in income from continuing operations was largely due to tax benefits of $3.1 million in 2007 (versus $13.2 million in 2006) related to the favorable resolution of tax matters, a decrease in net interest income in 2007 and gains on the sale of corporate assets in 2006. These unfavorable items were partially offset by impairment recoveries of $172,000 ($105,000 after-tax) in 2007 comprised of insurance recoveries relating to assets that were damaged as a result of Hurricane Katrina versus net impairment losses of $3.4 million, or $2.1 million after-tax, in 2006.

 

Net income for 2007 was $44.6 million, or $2.14 per diluted share, compared to $63.6 million, or $2.91 per diluted share, for 2006. Net income for 2007 includes income from discontinued operations of $2.0 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, relating to the settlement of a real estate participation interest associated with a parcel of land sold by a discontinued operation several years ago. Net income for 2006 includes income from discontinued operations of $12.2 million, or $0.56 per diluted share, consisting of $7.4 million ($11.8 million pre-tax) related to the expiration of product warranty liabilities associated with a previously sold manufacturing operation and $4.8 million primarily related to the favorable resolution of tax and other matters related to previously sold operations.

 

GES. Revenues for GES were $746.7 million for 2007, an increase of 19.8 percent from the 2006 amount of $623.1 million. The increase was primarily driven by $95.9 million in revenue from Melville, as well as strong same-show growth of 10.8 percent and new business at GES’ North American operations, which was partially offset by $34 million in negative show rotation revenue. Management defines base same-show revenue growth as growth in exhibitions and events that occur in the same quarter and same city every year. Base same shows represented approximately 37.8 percent of GES’ revenue in 2007.

 

Segment operating income increased 5.7 percent to $50.8 million in 2007 as compared to $48.1 million in 2006, primarily as a result of the revenue growth partially offset by an increase in insurance claims expense (workers’ compensation and general liability) and cost overruns on certain shows. In 2006, Viad also received $1.7 million related to the final settlement of its GES business interruption insurance claim resulting from Hurricane Katrina, which was recorded in segment operating income. Operating margins were 6.8 percent in 2007 as compared to 7.7 percent in 2006.

Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. Revenues for Exhibitgroup/Giltspur were $172.7 million for 2007, an increase of 12.4 percent from the 2006 amount of $153.7 million. The growth in revenue was primarily the result of Exhibitgroup/Giltspur’s focus on repositioning the company, which resulted in greater revenues from new clients and lower client attrition. International revenues also increased in 2007. Segment operating loss for 2007 was $4.8 million versus segment operating loss of $3.5 million in 2006. The 2007 loss reflects the cost of initiatives to reposition the company for growth, including higher costs for performance-based incentives.

 

Travel and Recreation Services. Revenues of the Travel and Recreation Services segment were $84.2 million for 2007, an increase of 6.3 percent from $79.3 million in 2006. Segment operating income was $22.7 million in both 2007 and 2006. Operating margins decreased to 27.0 percent for 2007 from 28.6 percent in 2006. The decrease in operating margins was primarily due to an increase in repairs and maintenance expense and an increase in Canada’s minimum wage rate which increased salary expense. As discussed below, results in this segment were favorably impacted by exchange rates during 2007 resulting in approximately $1.0 million in additional segment operating income as compared to 2006. Brewster saw growth in passenger volume at its Banff Gondola and an increase in revenues at its Mount Royal Hotel. Additionally, Glacier Park realized strong occupancy at its inns and lodges and an increase in room revenue over 2006.

 

During 2007, approximately 75 percent of revenue and 85 percent of operating income generated in Viad’s Travel and Recreation Services segment was derived through its Canadian operations. These operations are largely dependent on foreign customer visitation, and, accordingly, increases in the value of the Canadian dollar compared to other currencies could adversely affect customer volumes, and, therefore, revenue and operating income in the Travel and Recreation Services segment.

 

The operating results related to Viad’s Canadian subsidiaries were translated into U.S. dollars at weighted-average exchange rates of 0.95 and 0.90 for 2007 and 2006, respectively. Accordingly, Viad’s consolidated results of operations have been favorably impacted by the strengthening of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar as it relates to the translation of its Canadian operations. Decreases in the exchange rates may adversely impact overall expected profitability and historical period to period comparisons when operating results are translated into U.S. dollars.

 

Corporate Activities. Corporate activities expense totaled $9.2 million in 2007 compared to $12.3 million in 2006. The decrease was primarily related to a reduction in share-based compensation expense.

 

Interest Income. Interest income of $6.1 million for 2007 decreased from $7.9 million for 2006. The decrease was due to lower average cash balances in 2007 as compared to 2006 resulting from Viad’s acquisitions and share repurchases.

 

Restructuring Charges and Recoveries. During 2007, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur recorded restructuring charges totaling $2.0 million ($1.2 million after-tax) consisting of severance and other employee benefits associated with an organizational realignment. In 2007 and 2006, Viad also reversed $589,000 ($360,000 after-tax) and $570,000 ($344,000 after-tax), respectively, of costs from previous restructurings not expected to be incurred. In 2006, Viad also recorded a charge of $355,000 ($222,000 after-tax) as a revision of the 2004 consolidation of leased office space at its corporate headquarters.

 

Impairment Losses and Recoveries. Viad recorded impairment recoveries of $172,000 ($105,000 after-tax) in 2007 comprised of insurance recoveries relating to assets that were damaged as a result of Hurricane Katrina. In 2006, Viad recorded an intangible asset impairment loss of $4.6 million ($2.8 million after-tax) related to the write-off of the remaining book value of the trademark intangible asset at Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. Viad also recorded net impairment recoveries of $1.2 million ($705,000 after-tax) in 2006 comprised of insurance recoveries of $1.8 million relating to assets that were damaged as a result of Hurricane Katrina partially offset by an impairment loss of $600,000 related to the reduction in value of a non-core asset sold in the fourth quarter of 2006.

 

Income Taxes. The effective tax rate on income before income taxes and minority interest for 2007 was 31.0 percent compared to 15.8 percent for 2006. The relatively low effective tax rates compared to the statutory rate were primarily attributable to the favorable resolution of tax matters totaling of $3.1 million and $13.2 million in 2007 and 2006, respectively. In addition, Viad recorded a tax benefit of $1.3 million in 2007 related to the remeasurement of certain deferred tax liabilities due to a reduction in the enacted tax rates in Canada.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources:

 

Cash and cash equivalents were $148.0 million as of December 31, 2008 as compared to $165.1 million as of December 31, 2007, with the decrease primarily due to capital expenditures, the acquisition of Becker Group and share repurchases, mostly offset by cash flow from operations. Management believes that Viad’s existing sources of liquidity will be sufficient to fund operations and capital commitments for at least the next 12 months.

Viad’s total debt as of December 31, 2008 was $12.6 million compared to $14.2 million as of December 31, 2007. The debt-to-capital ratio was 0.026 to 1 as of December 31, 2008 compared with 0.029 to 1 as of December 31, 2007. Capital is defined as total debt plus minority interest and common stock and other equity.

 

Effective June 15, 2006, Viad amended and restated its $150 million secured revolving credit agreement dated June 30, 2004. The term of the amended and restated revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Facility”) is five years (expiring on June 15, 2011) and borrowings are to be used for general corporate purposes (including permitted acquisitions) and to support up to $75 million of letters of credit. The Credit Facility may be increased up to an additional $75 million under certain circumstances. The lenders have a first perfected security interest in all of the personal property of Viad and GES, including 65 percent of the capital stock of top-tier foreign subsidiaries.

 

Borrowings under the Credit Facility (of which GES is a guarantor) are indexed to the prime rate or the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), plus appropriate spreads tied to Viad’s leverage ratio. Commitment fees and letters of credit fees are also tied to Viad’s leverage ratio. The fees on the unused portion of the Credit Facility are currently 0.15 percent annually. As of December 31, 2008, Viad had an outstanding borrowing of $8.2 million under the Credit Facility. Financial covenants include a minimum consolidated net worth requirement of not less than $344.6 million plus 50 percent of positive quarterly consolidated net income earned in each fiscal quarter beginning with the quarter ended June 30, 2006 plus net cash proceeds from all issuances of capital stock minus the amount of capital stock repurchased, a fixed-charge coverage ratio of not less than 1.25 to 1, and a leverage ratio (defined as total debt to Adjusted EBITDA) of not greater than 2.75 to 1. Significant other covenants include limitations on: investments, common stock dividends, stock repurchases, additional indebtedness, sales/leases of assets, acquisitions, consolidations or mergers and liens on property. As of December 31, 2008, Viad was in compliance with all covenants.

 

As of December 31, 2008, Viad had certain obligations under guarantees to third parties on behalf of its subsidiaries. These guarantees are not subject to liability recognition in the consolidated financial statements and primarily relate to leased facilities and credit or loan arrangements with banks entered into by the Company’s subsidiary operations. The Company would generally be required to make payments to the respective third parties under these guarantees in the event that the related subsidiary could not meet its own payment obligations. The maximum potential amount of future payments that Viad would be required to make under all guarantees existing as of December 31, 2008 would be $37.9 million. These guarantees primarily relate to leased facilities and certain equipment expiring through October 2017. There are no recourse provisions that would enable Viad to recover from third parties any payments made under the guarantees. Furthermore, there are not collateral or similar arrangements whereby Viad could recover payments.

 

Capital expenditures for 2008 totaled $39.0 million and primarily related to the purchase of equipment and information systems and related costs at GES and new tour buses at Brewster. Capital expenditures for 2007 totaled $33.3 million and primarily related to the purchase of rental inventory, information systems and related costs and leasehold improvements at GES and new tour buses at Brewster.

 

On January 4, 2008, Viad completed the acquisition of Becker Group for $24.3 million in cash and incurred $325,000 of direct acquisition costs for a total purchase price of $24.6 million. The operating results of Becker Group have been included in Viad’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition.

 

Viad announced its intent, under authorizations by its Board of Directors, to repurchase up to an aggregate of three million shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time at prevailing prices in the open market. During 2008, the Company repurchased 581,119 shares for $15.7 million. Shares repurchased in 2007 and 2006 totaled 781,700 and 1,476,500, respectively, for $28.2 million and $49.4 million, respectively. The authorizations of the Board of Directors do not have expiration dates and 160,681 shares are available for repurchase as of December 31, 2008. Additionally, during 2008, 2007 and 2006, the Company repurchased 50,061 shares for $1.6 million, 31,201 shares for $1.2 million and 48,692 shares for $1.5 million, respectively, related to tax withholding requirements on vested share-based awards.

 

Viad exercises significant judgment in determining its income tax provision due to transactions, credits and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Accordingly, Viad has recorded significant accrued liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions. The final resolution or settlement of uncertain tax positions could result in future cash payments. See “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” for further discussion.

The following table presents Viad’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2008:

 

 

 

 

Viad and certain of its subsidiaries are plaintiffs or defendants to various actions, proceedings and pending claims, some of which involve, or may involve, compensatory, punitive or other damages. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties and it is possible that some of the legal actions, proceedings or claims could be decided against Viad. Although the amount of liability as of December 31, 2008 with respect to these matters is not ascertainable, Viad believes that any resulting liability, after taking into consideration amounts already provided for, including insurance coverage, will not have a material effect on Viad’s business, financial position or results of operations.

 

Viad is subject to various U.S. federal, state and foreign laws and regulations governing the prevention of pollution and the protection of the environment in the jurisdictions in which Viad has or had operations. If the Company has failed to comply with these environmental laws and regulations, civil and criminal penalties could be imposed and Viad could become subject to regulatory enforcement actions in the form of injunctions and cease and desist orders. As is the case with many companies, Viad also faces exposure to actual or potential claims and lawsuits involving environmental matters relating to its past operations. Although it is a party to certain environmental disputes, Viad believes that any resulting liabilities, after taking into consideration amounts already provided for, including insurance coverage, will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or liquidity. As of December 31, 2008, there was a remaining environmental remediation liability of $7.7 million related to previously sold operations of which $2.2 million was included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Other current liabilities” and $5.5 million under the caption “Other deferred items and liabilities.”

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements:

 

Viad does not have any “off-balance sheet” arrangements with unconsolidated special-purpose or other entities that would materially affect the Company’s financial position, results of operations, liquidity or capital resources. Furthermore, Viad does not have any relationships with special-purpose or other entities that provide off-balance sheet financing; liquidity, market risk or credit risk support; or engage in leasing or other services that expose the Company to liability or risks of loss that are not reflected in Viad’s consolidated financial statements. See Notes 10, 18 and 19 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates:

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities in the consolidated financial statements. The SEC has defined a company’s most critical accounting policies as those that are most important to the portrayal of a company’s financial position and results of operations, and that require a company to make its most difficult and subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates of matters that are inherently uncertain. Based on these criteria, Viad has identified and discussed with its audit committee the following critical accounting policies and estimates pertaining to Viad, and the methodology and disclosures related to those estimates:

 

Goodwill and other intangible assets − Goodwill is not amortized, but tested for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis on October 31 of each year. Goodwill is also tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Viad’s reporting units are defined, and goodwill is tested, at either an operating segment level, or at the component level of an operating segment, depending on various factors including the internal reporting structure of the operating segment, the level of integration among components, the sharing of assets among components, and the benefits and likely recoverability of goodwill by the component’s operations.

 

As of December 31, 2008, Viad had goodwill of $174.0 million related to the GES operating segment. For goodwill impairment testing purposes, this goodwill is assigned to and tested at the GES component level, based on its discrete geographical operations in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada. As of December 31, 2008, Viad had goodwill of $5.1 million related to the Becker Group operating segment (within the Experiential Marketing Services reportable segment), and goodwill of $33.4 million related to the Brewster operating segment (within the Travel and Recreation Services reportable segment). Both the Becker Group and Brewster operating segments are considered reporting units for goodwill impairment testing purposes.

 

Viad uses a discounted expected future cash flow methodology (income approach) in order to estimate the fair value of its reporting units for purposes of goodwill impairment testing. The estimates and assumptions regarding expected future cash flows, discount rates and terminal values require considerable judgment and are based on market conditions, financial forecasts, industry trends and historical experience.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2008, Viad performed its goodwill impairment testing under the income approach described above. Accordingly, the most critical assumptions and estimates in determining the estimated fair value of its reporting units related to the amounts and timing of expected future cash flows for each reporting unit, and the reporting unit cost of capital (discount rate) applied to those cash flows. During this time frame, Viad significantly reduced its expected future revenue, operating income and cash flow forecasts for 2009 compared to 2008, across all of its operating segments as the Company believes that there will be lower overall customer spending for its goods and services. These reductions were driven by the accelerated deterioration of the macroeconomic environment, increased uncertainties in the marketplace, the global economic downturn in general and unfavorable foreign currency translation.

 

Based on these facts and circumstances, the Company’s forecasts and projections assume a significant decline in Viad’s aggregate full year 2009 revenue, and a decline in full year 2009 segment operating income compared to 2008 levels. Viad’s goodwill impairment valuation models also assume a modest recovery in the subsequent two-year time frame, and moderate-inflationary type growth in the longer term. Viad assumed terminal growth rates for its reporting units which approximate long-term inflationary levels. Furthermore, the assumed reporting unit cost of capital rates (discount rates) were estimated using a build-up method based on the perceived risk associated with the cash flows pertaining to the specific reporting unit. Finally, in order to assess the reasonableness of its fair value estimates, the Company performed a reconciliation of the aggregate fair values of its reporting units to Viad’s market capitalization on the measurement date.

 

Based on the Company’s goodwill impairment testing, Viad recorded a goodwill impairment loss of $6.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2008 related to the Becker Group reporting unit. Although there was no indicated impairment related to the other reporting units for which goodwill had been assigned and tested, the Company has experienced a significant narrowing of the margin between the estimated fair values of the reporting units and their related net book values under step one of the goodwill impairment test. As noted above, the estimates and assumptions regarding expected future cash flows, discount rates and terminal values require considerable judgment and are based on market conditions, financial forecasts, industry trends and historical experience. Due to the substantial uncertainties in the current economic environment, a further reduction in the Company’s 2009 expected revenue, operating income or cash flow forecasts, or an increase in reporting unit cost of capital, could trigger an interim goodwill impairment test, which may result in additional goodwill impairment charges.

Furthermore, management continues to monitor the market capitalization of the Company as declines in market capitalization could be indicative of possible goodwill impairment. During the first quarter of 2009, the Company has experienced additional declines in its market capitalization which management will continue to evaluate with respect to its assessment of goodwill and other intangible assets. An ongoing decline in market capitalization could result in future impairment charges.

 

In addition, as of December 31, 2008, the Company had remaining goodwill of $5.1 million related to the acquisition of Becker Group in 2008, and $23.6 million of goodwill related to the acquisition of Melville in 2007, which constitutes GES’ United Kingdom reporting unit. Due to the recent timing of these acquisitions, there is a higher level of sensitivity with respect to the estimated fair values of these reporting units relative to their respective book values. Accordingly, changes in the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of these reporting units may result in additional goodwill impairment charges.

 

Other intangible assets not subject to amortization, which primarily consist of trademarks and trade names, are also tested for impairment annually on October 31 of each year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. Other intangible assets not subject to amortization are also reviewed annually to determine whether an indefinite useful life remains appropriate. The Company also uses an income approach to measure the estimated fair values of its trademarks and trade names not subject to amortization. Intangible assets subject to amortization are stated at cost, net of accumulated amortization, and are tested for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the intangible asset may not be recoverable through undiscounted cash flows. Intangible assets subject to amortization consist of customer contracts and relationships, design libraries, non-compete agreements and proprietary technology.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company performed its impairment testing of other intangible assets not subject to amortization and also completed an impairment evaluation of intangible assets subject to amortization due to the continued deterioration of the macroeconomic environment and other factors discussed above. As a result of this testing, the Company recorded aggregate other intangible asset impairment charges of $3.7 million. Of the total amount, $1.1 million of other intangible asset impairments related to a trade name and a contract-based intangible at Becker Group and $2.6 million of other intangible asset impairments related to trade names and customer-related intangible assets at Melville. The assumptions used to complete the impairment testing of other intangible assets were consistent with those used in the goodwill impairment testing described above. To the extent that goodwill and another asset of the same reporting unit were tested at the same time, the other asset was tested for impairment before goodwill.

 

As of December 31, 2008, the Company had aggregate intangible assets not subject to amortization of $7.6 million and aggregate intangible assets subject to amortization of $10.3 million. As noted above, due to the substantial uncertainties in the current economic environment, a further reduction in the Company’s 2009 expected revenue, operating income or cash flow forecasts could trigger interim impairment tests for these intangible assets, which may result in additional impairment charges.

 

Income taxes − Viad is required to estimate and record provisions for income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which the Company operates. Accordingly, the Company must estimate its actual current income tax liability, and assess temporary differences arising from the treatment of items for tax purposes as compared to the treatment for accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities which are included in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets. The Company must assess the likelihood that deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income and to the extent that recovery is not likely, a valuation allowance must be established.

 

As of December 31, 2008 and 2007, Viad had gross deferred tax assets of $51.4 million and $62.2 million, respectively. These deferred tax assets reflect the expected future tax benefits to be realized upon reversal of deductible temporary differences, and the utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The Company uses significant judgment in forming a conclusion regarding the recoverability of these assets from future taxable income. Furthermore, the Company considers available evidence in performing this assessment including the consideration of both historical and forecasted taxable income. As of December 31, 2008 and 2007, Viad had a valuation allowance of $162,000 and $325,000, respectively, related to certain state deferred tax assets at Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. With respect to all other deferred tax assets, management believes that recovery from future taxable income is more-likely-than-not.

 

Viad is subject to regular and recurring audits by the taxing authorities in the jurisdictions in which the Company conducts or had previously conducted operations. These include U.S. federal and most state jurisdictions, and certain foreign jurisdictions including Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany.

 

Effective January 1, 2007, Viad adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”), an interpretation of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” Accordingly, Viad exercises judgment in determining its income tax provision due to transactions, credits and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. As of December 31, 2008 and 2007, Viad had accrued

gross liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions for continuing operations of $3.5 million and $12.8 million, respectively. In addition, as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, Viad had accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions for continuing operations of $2.2 million and $5.1 million, respectively. Upon adoption of FIN 48, the Company elected to continue to classify interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities as a component of income tax expense.

 

In addition to the above, Viad had accrued gross liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions for discontinued operations of $636,000 as of both December 31, 2008 and 2007. In addition, as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, Viad had accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions for discontinued operations of $273,000 and $220,000, respectively. Future tax resolutions or settlements that may occur related to these uncertain tax positions would be recorded through discontinued operations (net of federal tax effects, if applicable).

 

As of December 31, 2008, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits for continuing operations of $2.4 million (including federal income tax effects of $1.1 million) would favorably affect Viad’s effective tax rate, if recognized, as the related uncertain tax positions are permanent in nature. However, if amounts accrued are less than amounts ultimately assessed by the taxing authorities, Viad would record additional income tax expense. To the extent that the Company has favorable tax settlements, or determines that accrued amounts are no longer needed due to a lapse in the applicable statute of limitations or other reasons, such liabilities would be reversed as a reduction of income tax expense (net of federal tax effects, if applicable) in the period such determination is made.

 

The Company has been subject to certain foreign tax audits in multiple Canadian jurisdictions related to the 2001 through 2005 tax years. As a result of such audits, certain issues were raised regarding the tax treatment of specific intercompany debt transactions. These uncertain tax positions had been accrued as tax liabilities, as the Company had not previously recognized any tax benefits associated with those transactions in its income tax provision. During the fourth quarter of 2008, Viad reached a joint settlement agreement with the Canadian taxing jurisdictions pertaining to the 2001 through 2005 tax audits. The settlement agreement resulted in gross tax reassessments of $4.9 million (consisting of $3.5 million of tax due, and $1.4 million of related interest). As of December 31, 2008, the total amount of $4.9 million was included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Other current liabilities.” Furthermore, Viad paid the reassessments of $4.9 million in January 2009. In addition, the joint settlement agreement also resulted in certain tax reassessments for which the Company would receive aggregate tax refunds of $1.9 million. As of December 31, 2008, the amount of $1.9 million was included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption, “Other current assets.” The Company received these refunds in February 2009.

 

The Company has uncertain tax positions in U.S. federal and various state jurisdictions for which the unrecognized tax benefits may significantly decrease due to effective settlements or a lapse in the applicable statute of limitations. These tax positions primarily relate to the deductibility of certain expenses and the method of filing for combined and separate entities. Accordingly, the Company believes that it is reasonably possible that approximately $3.1 million (excluding federal income tax effects of $1.0 million) of its uncertain tax positions could be resolved or settled within the next 12 months which would reduce the amount of accrued income taxes payable. If such tax resolutions or settlements occur, they could result in cash payments, the recognition of additional income tax expense, or the reversal of accrued income taxes which may impact Viad’s effective tax rate in future periods.

 

Insurance liabilities − Viad is self-insured up to certain limits for workers’ compensation, automobile, product and general liability and property loss claims. The aggregate amount of insurance liabilities related to Viad’s continuing operations was $22.6 million as of December 31, 2008. Of this total, $16.6 million related to workers’ compensation liabilities and the remaining $6.0 million related to general/auto liability claims. Viad has also retained and provided for certain insurance liabilities in conjunction with previously sold businesses totaling $9.9 million as of December 31, 2008, primarily related to workers’ compensation liabilities. Provisions for losses for claims incurred, including estimated claims incurred but not yet reported, are made based on Viad’s historical experience, claims frequency and other factors. A change in the assumptions used could result in an adjustment to recorded liabilities. Viad has purchased insurance for amounts in excess of the self-insured levels, which generally range from $200,000 to $500,000 on a per claim basis. Viad does not maintain a self-insured retention pool fund as claims are paid from current cash resources at the time of settlement. Viad’s net cash payments in connection with these insurance liabilities were $8.3 million and $7.4 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

Pension and postretirement benefits − Viad’s pension plans use traditional defined benefit formulas based on years of service and final average compensation. Funding policies provide that payments to defined benefit pension trusts shall be at least equal to the minimum funding required by applicable regulations. The Company presently anticipates contributing $655,000 to its funded pension plans and $777,000 to its unfunded pension plans in 2009.

 

Viad and certain of its subsidiaries have defined benefit postretirement plans that provide medical and life insurance for certain eligible employees, retirees and dependents. The related postretirement benefit liabilities are recognized over the period

that services are provided by employees. In addition, Viad retained the obligations for these benefits for retirees of certain sold businesses. While the plans have no funding requirements, Viad expects to contribute $535,000 to the plans in 2009.

 

The assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring the 2008 accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was nine percent in the year 2008, declining one-half percent each year to the ultimate rate of five percent by the year 2016 and remaining at that level thereafter. The assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring the 2007 accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for post-age 65 plan participants was eight percent in the year 2007, declining one percent each year to the ultimate rate of five percent by the year 2010 and remaining at that level thereafter. For pre-age 65 plan participants, the assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring the 2007 accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was seven percent in the year 2007, declining one percent each year to the ultimate rate of five percent by the year 2009 and remaining at that level thereafter.

 

A one-percentage-point increase in the assumed health care cost trend rate for each year would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2008 by approximately $1.2 million and the total of service and interest cost components by approximately $88,000. A one-percentage-point decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rate for each year would decrease the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2008 by approximately $1.1 million and the total of service and interest cost components by approximately $78,000.

 

The weighted-average discount rates used to determine the domestic pension and postretirement benefit obligations were both 6.90 percent in 2008 and 6.40 percent and 6.25 percent in 2007, respectively. The weighted-average discount rates used to determine the foreign pension benefit obligations as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 were 7.00 percent and 5.75 percent, respectively. The weighted-average discount rates used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the domestic plans for 2008 and 2007 were 6.40 percent and 5.50 percent, respectively. The net periodic benefit cost for the foreign pension plans used weighted-average discount rates of 5.75 percent and 5.00 percent for 2008 and 2007, respectively. The discount rates used in determining future pension and postretirement benefit obligations are based on rates determined by actuarial analysis and management review, and reflect the estimated rates of return on a high-quality, hypothetical bond portfolio whose cash flows match the timing and amounts of expected benefit payments.

 

The expected return on plan assets used to determine the domestic net periodic pension cost for both 2008 and 2007 was 7.75 percent. The foreign pension plans used rates of 6.50 percent and 7.00 percent for 2008 and 2007, respectively. The expected return on plan assets used to determine net periodic postretirement benefit cost for both 2008 and 2007 was 7.50 percent. See Note 16 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

Share-based compensation − Viad grants share-based compensation awards to officers, directors and certain key employees pursuant to the 2007 Viad Corp Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2007 Plan”), which was approved at the 2007 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The 2007 Plan has a ten-year life and provides for the following types of awards: (a) incentive and non-qualified stock options; (b) restricted stock and restricted stock units; (c) performance units or performance shares; (d) stock appreciation rights; (e) cash-based awards and (f) certain other stock-based awards. The 1997 Viad Corp Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “1997 Plan”) had a ten-year life and terminated in May 2007. No further awards were granted under the 1997 Plan after its termination. Existing awards from the 1997 Plan will continue to vest and be exercisable until such time that all awards have been exercised, forfeited or expired. The number of shares of common stock available for grant under the 2007 Plan is limited to 1,700,000 shares plus shares awarded under the 1997 Plan that subsequently cease for any reason to be subject to such awards (other than by reason of exercise or settlement of the awards to the extent the shares are exercised for, or settled in, vested and non-forfeited shares) up to an aggregate maximum of 1,500,000 shares.

 

Total share-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements in 2008, 2007 and 2006 was $6.2 million, $9.1 million and $11.1 million, respectively. Furthermore, the total tax benefits related to such costs were $2.3 million, $3.5 million and $4.3 million in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively. No share-based compensation costs were capitalized during 2008, 2007 or 2006.

 

Viad uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model for purposes of determining the fair value of each stock option grant for which key assumptions are necessary. These assumptions include Viad’s expected stock price volatility; the expected period of time the stock option will remain outstanding; the expected dividend yield on Viad common stock, and the risk-free interest rate. Changes in the assumptions could result in different estimates of the fair value of stock option grants, and consequently impact Viad’s results of operations. See Note 2 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements:

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement and not an entity-specific measurement. Accordingly, fair value measurements should be

determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. SFAS No. 157 generally applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, except for share-based payment transactions and other limited exceptions. SFAS No. 157 was effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” which partially defers the effective date of SFAS No. 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a nonrecurring basis. Accordingly, Viad adopted the applicable provisions of SFAS No. 157 on January 1, 2008, which did not have a material impact on Viad’s financial position or results of operations. The nonfinancial assets and liabilities for which Viad has not applied the disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 157 include the fair value measurements related to goodwill impairment testing, indefinite lived intangible asset impairment testing and the nonfinancial assets and liabilities initially measured at fair value in a business combination, but not measured at fair value in subsequent periods. Furthermore, the Company believes that the full adoption of SFAS No. 157 will not have a material impact on Viad’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In September 2006, the FASB also issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans − an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R).” SFAS No. 158 requires employers to recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of a defined benefit pension plan and also requires employers to measure the funded status of a plan as of the date of its year end statement of financial position. Viad adopted the recognition and disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 158 as of December 31, 2006. The requirement to measure plan assets and benefit obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year end statement of financial position is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2008. Viad had historically utilized a November 30 measurement date for certain of its pension and postretirement benefit plans. Accordingly, Viad adopted the measurement date provisions of SFAS No. 158 on December 31, 2008 to coincide with its year end statement of financial position. The adoption of the measurement date provisions of SFAS No. 158 did not have a material impact on Viad’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115.” SFAS No. 159 permits companies to choose to measure (on specified election dates) eligible financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected will be reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. The fair value election may generally be applied on an instrument-by-instrument basis (in its entirety) and is irrevocable unless a new election date occurs. SFAS No. 159 is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. Accordingly, Viad adopted SFAS No. 159 on January 1, 2008. The adoption of SFAS No. 159 did not have a material impact on Viad’s financial position or results of operations as the Company did not elect the fair value option, nor is it expected to have a material impact on future periods as the election of this option is expected to be limited.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations.” SFAS No. 141(R) replaces SFAS No. 141 and, although it retains certain requirements of that guidance, it is broader in scope. SFAS No. 141(R) establishes principles and requirements in the recognition and measurement of the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interests related to a business combination. Among other requirements, direct acquisition costs and acquisition-related restructuring costs must be accounted for separately from the business combination. In addition, SFAS No. 141(R) provides guidance in accounting for step acquisitions, contingent liabilities, goodwill, contingent consideration and other aspects of business combinations. SFAS No. 141(R) applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Accordingly, Viad will adopt SFAS No. 141(R) in the first quarter of 2009 and will apply its provisions prospectively.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51.” SFAS No. 160 requires that ownership interests in subsidiaries held by parties other than the parent be presented separately within equity in the consolidated balance sheet. SFAS No. 160 also requires that the consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interests be identified and displayed on the face of the consolidated income statement. Changes in ownership interests, deconsolidation and additional disclosures regarding noncontrolling interests are also addressed in the new guidance. SFAS No. 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Accordingly, Viad will adopt SFAS No. 160 in the first quarter of 2009. As of December 31, 2008, Viad had $6.5 million related to a noncontrolling interest recorded in its consolidated balance sheet. Beginning in 2009, the Company’s noncontrolling interest will be reclassified and included within equity on Viad’s consolidated balance sheet. In addition, the Company’s consolidated statements of operations will be presented in a manner that reflects consolidated net income that includes the amounts attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interest. Furthermore, separate disclosure of the amounts of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interest will be presented. During the year ended

December 31, 2008, the amount of consolidated net income attributable to Viad’s noncontrolling interest was $550,000. The provisions of SFAS No. 160 will be applied retrospectively to all periods presented.

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” SFAS No. 161 requires enhanced disclosures related to an entity’s derivative and hedging activities to improve financial reporting and enhance the current disclosure framework in SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” SFAS No. 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Accordingly, Viad will adopt SFAS No. 161 in the first quarter of 2009. The adoption of SFAS No. 161 is not expected to have a material impact on Viad’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets.” FSP FAS 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” The intent of this guidance is to improve the consistency between the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142 and the period of expected cash flows used to measure the fair value of the asset under SFAS No. 141(R), and other GAAP. The guidance for determining the useful life of a recognized intangible asset is to be applied prospectively to intangible assets acquired after the effective date. However, the disclosure requirements are to be applied prospectively to all intangible assets recognized as of, and subsequent to, the effective date. FSP FAS 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Accordingly, Viad will adopt FSP FAS 142-3 in the first quarter of 2009 and will apply its provisions prospectively.

 

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS No. 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles to be used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with GAAP. SFAS No. 162 became effective in November 2008, which was 60 days following the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” The adoption of SFAS No. 162 did not have a material impact on Viad’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In June 2008, the FASB issued FSP EITF 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities.” FSP EITF 03-6-1 addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing income per share under the two-class method pursuant to SFAS No. 128, “Earnings per Share.” This guidance establishes that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and shall be included in the computation of earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. FSP EITF 03-6-1 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Furthermore, all prior period earnings per share data presented shall be adjusted retrospectively to conform to the provisions of FSP EITF 03-6-1. Accordingly, Viad will adopt FSP EITF 03-6-1 in the first quarter of 2009. During 2008 and prior years, the Company had certain share-based payment transactions which would be subject to the guidance set forth in FSP EITF 03-6-1. As of December 31, 2008, Viad had outstanding 358,285 shares of nonvested restricted stock awards and 94,828 shares of nonvested performance-based restricted stock awards, all of which contain nonforfeitable dividend rights. Accordingly, the Company believes that these share-based payment awards are deemed participating securities pursuant to FSP EITF 03-6-1 and subject to the computation of income per share under the two-class method. Although the Company has not finalized its computations, it currently believes that the adoption of FSP EITF 03-6-1 may result in a material reduction of Viad’s computation of basic income per share, and to a lesser extent, may impact diluted income per share.

 

In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 132(R)-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets.” FSP FAS 132(R)-1 provides guidance on an employer’s disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or other postretirement benefit plan. The required disclosures include information regarding investment policies and strategies, categories of plan assets, fair value measurements of plan assets and concentrations of risk. FSP FAS 132(R)-1 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009. Accordingly, Viad will adopt the provisions of FSP FAS 132(R)-1 to the Company’s disclosures in 2009. The adoption of FSP FAS 132(R)-1 is not expected to have a material impact on Viad’s financial position or results of operations.

 

Forward-Looking Statements:

 

As provided by the safe harbor provision under the “Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995,” Viad cautions readers that, in addition to historical information contained herein, this Annual Report includes certain information, assumptions and discussions that may constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but reflect current estimates, projections, expectations, or trends concerning future growth, operating cash flows, availability of short-term

borrowings, consumer demand, new business, investment policies, productivity improvements, ongoing cost reduction efforts, efficiency, competitiveness, legal expenses, tax rates and other tax matters, foreign exchange rates and the realization of restructuring cost savings. Actual results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Viad’s businesses can be affected by a host of risks and uncertainties. Among other things, natural disasters, gains and losses of customers, consumer demand patterns, labor relations, purchasing decisions related to customer demand for exhibition and event services, existing and new competition, industry alliances, consolidation and growth patterns within the industries in which Viad competes, acquisitions, adverse developments in liabilities associated with discontinued operations, any deterioration in the economy and other risks discussed in Item 1A., “Risk Factors,” included in this Annual Report, may individually or in combination impact future results. In addition to factors mentioned elsewhere, economic, competitive, governmental, technological, capital marketplace and other factors, including further terrorist activities or war and international conditions, could affect the forward-looking statements in this Annual Report.

 

 

Viad’s market risk exposures relate to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, interest rates and certain commodity prices. Foreign exchange risk is the risk that fluctuating exchange rates will adversely affect financial condition or results of operations. Interest rate risk is the risk that changing interest rates will adversely affect the earnings of Viad. Commodity risk is the risk that changing prices will adversely affect results of operations.

 

Viad conducts its foreign operations primarily in Canada and the United Kingdom and to a lesser extent in certain other countries. The functional currency of Viad’s foreign subsidiaries is their local currency. Accordingly, for purposes of consolidation, Viad translates the assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars at the foreign exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. The unrealized gains or losses resulting from the translation of these foreign denominated assets and liabilities are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets. As a result, significant fluctuations in foreign exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar may result in material changes to Viad’s net equity position reported in its consolidated balance sheets. Viad does not currently hedge its equity risk arising from the translation of foreign denominated assets and liabilities. Viad had cumulative unrealized foreign currency translation gains recorded in equity of $6.2 million and $47.9 million as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. During 2008 and 2007, an unrealized foreign currency translation loss of $41.7 million and a gain of $24.4 million, respectively, were recorded in other comprehensive income.

 

In addition, for purposes of consolidation, the revenues, expenses, gains and losses related to Viad’s foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average foreign exchange rates for the period. As a result, Viad’s consolidated results of operations are exposed to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates as the operating results of its foreign subsidiaries, when translated, may vary from period to period, even when the functional currency amounts have not changed. Such fluctuations may adversely impact overall expected profitability and historical period to period comparisons. Viad does not currently hedge its net earnings exposure arising from the translation of its foreign operating results. As noted above, Viad primarily conducts its foreign operations in Canada and the United Kingdom. Accordingly, the operating results related to its Canadian subsidiaries were translated into U.S. dollars at weighted-average exchange rates of 0.97, 0.95 and 0.90 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively. Accordingly, Viad’s segment operating income has been favorably impacted by approximately $663,000 in 2008 from the strengthening of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar as it relates to the translation of its Canadian operations. A hypothetical change of ten percent in the Canadian exchange rate would have resulted in a change to operating income of approximately $2.2 million. The operating results related to its United Kingdom subsidiaries were translated into U.S. dollars at weighted-average exchange rates of 1.92, 2.01 and 1.85 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively. Accordingly, Viad’s segment operating income has been unfavorably impacted by approximately $462,000 in 2008 from the weakening of the British pound relative to the U.S. dollar. A hypothetical change of ten percent in the British pound exchange rate would have resulted in a change to operating income of approximately $687,000.

 

Viad is exposed to foreign exchange transaction risk as its foreign subsidiaries have certain revenue transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the respective subsidiary. From time to time, Viad utilizes forward contracts to mitigate the impact on earnings related to these transactions due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The effect of changes in foreign exchange rates, net of the effect of the related forward contracts, has historically been immaterial to Viad’s consolidated results of operations. As of December 31, 2008 and 2007, Viad did not have any significant foreign currency forward contracts outstanding.

 

Viad is exposed to short-term interest rate risk on certain of its debt obligations. Viad currently does not use derivative financial instruments to hedge cash flows for such obligations. As of December 31, 2008 Viad had variable rate debt outstanding of $8.2 million under the Credit Facility. Interest payments related to Viad’s variable rate debt outstanding are indexed to LIBOR. Assuming a hypothetical adverse change in short term interest rates of 50 and 100 basis points, Viad’s 2008 income before income

taxes and minority interest would have been lower by approximately $40,000 and $81,000, respectively. See Note 10 of notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

Viad’s subsidiaries have exposure to changing fuel prices. Periodically, one of these subsidiaries enters into futures contracts with an oil company to purchase two types of fuel and specifies the monthly total volume, by fuel product, to be purchased over the agreed upon term of the contract, which is generally no longer than one year. The main objective of Viad’s risk policy related to changing fuel prices is to reduce transaction exposure in order to mitigate the cash flow risk and protect profit margins. There were no fuel contracts outstanding as of December 31, 2008 or 2007.

 

 

Refer to Index to Financial Statements on page 36 for required information.

 

 

None.

 

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Viad, the effectiveness of the design and operation of disclosure controls and procedures has been evaluated as of December 31, 2008, and, based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of December 31, 2008. Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed or submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in such reports is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

In connection with the acquisition of Becker Group on January 4, 2008, the Company implemented changes to its internal control over financial reporting to improve Becker Group’s segregation of duties in, and to improve documentation of, accounts receivable, purchasing, account reconciliation and journal entry processes. Becker Group also implemented Viad’s compliance and ethics program. Except for the preceding changes, there were no changes in Viad’s internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.

 

Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting and the report of Viad’s independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, are provided in this Annual Report immediately prior to the Index to Financial Statements.

 

 

None.

 

 

Information regarding directors of Viad, director nomination procedures, the Audit Committee of Viad’s Board of Directors and compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are included in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Viad to be held on May 19, 2009, and are incorporated herein by reference. Information regarding executive officers of Viad is located in Part I, “Executive Officers of Registrant” on page 10 of this Annual Report.

 

Viad has adopted a Code of Ethics for all directors, officers and employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. A copy of the Company’s Code of Ethics is available at Viad’s website at www.viad.com/pdf/corpgovernance/CodeofEthics.pdf and is also available without charge to any shareholder upon request by writing to: Viad Corp, 1850 North Central Avenue, Suite 800, Phoenix, Arizona 85004-4545, Attention: Vice President-General Counsel and Secretary.

 

 

Information regarding executive compensation is contained in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Viad to be held on May 19, 2009, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

Information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans are contained in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Viad to be held on May 19, 2009, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

Information regarding director independence, and certain relationships and related transactions, is contained in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Viad to be held on May 19, 2009, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

Information regarding principal accountant fees and services and the pre-approval policies and procedures for such fees and services, as adopted by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, is contained in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Viad to be held on May 19, 2009, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

 

 2. The exhibits listed in the accompanying Exhibit Index are filed as part of this Annual Report.

 

(b) Exhibits

 

 

(c) Financial Statement Schedules

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this Annual Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in Phoenix, Arizona, on the 27th day of February, 2009.

 

VIAD CORP

 

Paul B. Dykstra

Chairman of the Board, President and

Chief Executive Officer

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of Viad Corp and in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

The management of Viad Corp is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by the company’s board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and includes those policies and procedures that:

 

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Because of the inherent limitations of internal control, there is a risk that material misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal control over financial reporting. However, these inherent limitations are known features of the financial reporting process. Therefore, it is possible to design into the process safeguards to reduce, though not eliminate, this risk.

 

Management assessed the effectiveness of Viad’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework.

 

Based on its assessment, management concluded that, as of December 31, 2008, Viad’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

 

Viad’s independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued a report relating to its audit of the effectiveness of Viad’s internal control over financial reporting, which appears on page 35 of this Annual Report.

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Viad Corp

Phoenix, Arizona

 

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Viad Corp and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended December 31, 2008, of the Company and our report dated February 27, 2009, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule and included an explanatory paragraph regarding the Company’s 2007 change in its method of accounting for income taxes to comply with FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.”

 

Deloitte & Touche llp

 

Phoenix, Arizona

February 27, 2009

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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VIAD CORP

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

VIAD CORP

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

VIAD CORP

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

VIAD CORP

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

VIAD CORP